Be Prepared For Any Storm

6/15/2018 (Permalink)

Serious weather can happen anytime, anywhere. Each year Americans will endure an average of the following fierce storms:

1. 10,000 severe thunderstorms
2. 5,000 floods or flash floods
3. 1,000 tornadoes 
4. 2 land-falling deadly hurricanes  

Approximately 98% of all presidential declared disasters are weather-related, leading to around 500 deaths per year and nearly $15 billion in damage. Knowing your risk of severe weather, taking action and being an example are just a few steps you take to be better prepared to save your life and assist in saving the lives of others.

• Know Your Risk: The first step to becoming weather-ready is to understand the type of hazardous weather that can affect where you live and work, and how the weather could impact you, your business and your family. Check the weather forecast regularly, obtain a NOAA weather radio, and learn about Wireless Emergency Alerts. Severe weather comes in many forms and your shelter plan should include all types of local hazards.
• Take Action: Take the next step in severe weather preparedness by creating a communications plan for your home and business. Put together or purchase an emergency kit. Keep important papers and valuables in a safe place.
• Be an Example: Once you have taken action to prepare for severe weather, share your story with co-workers, family and friends on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram. Your preparedness story will inspire others to do the same. 

Examples of items that should be in your Supply Kit:

-Water (one gallon per person, per day)

-Food (non-perishable 3-day supply)

-Manual can opener

-Battery operated radio, preferable a NOAA weather radio

-Flashlight and extra batteries

-First Aid Kit

-Whistle to signal for help

Please visit http://www.redcross.org to see more items that are essentially necessary and how to create your Supply Kit!